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Follow an enticing trail of delicious tapas, avant-garde art, architectural triumphs and dramatic history on this 15-day tour through Spain and Portugal. Travel the scenic route from Madrid to Barcelona, relaxing on the beach in Algarve, sipping wine in Porto, enjoying the rolling green hills of Granada and being charmed by Andalusian Seville. Admire the masterpieces of Picasso, Dali and Gaudi, experience the passion of flamenco, taste some of the best port in the world and embrace the culture of these two spirited countries with a local leader to show you the way.

Why you'll love this trip

Get lost in the labyrinthine streets of the Albaicin in Granada before crossing the river to visit the imposing Moorish fortress of the Alhambra.

Unwind in a laidback fishing town in the Algarve, soaking up the sun on the beach and enjoying an included boat trip around the rocky cliffs of the coast.

Join pilgrims along the last leg of the famous Camino de Santiago journey as they reach the historic cathedral in Santiago de Compostela.

Pulsing with quirky and vibrant art and architecture, walking the streets of Barcelona is the perfect way to immerse yourself in the unique culture of Catalonia.

Sit back, relax and watch the water flow by in one of Porto’s river restaurants while you sample a couple of varieties of the city’s signature wine – port!

Is this trip right for you?

Please note that this trip covers a lot of ground. The majority of travel between destinations on this trip is done by trains and local buses. Time estimates are given in the day-to-day itinerary. It's a good time to sit back, relax and let the scenery roll past your window. It's also a perfect opportunity for local interaction.

Sometimes lifts aren’t available, and you will need to walk up and down stairs carrying your luggage. Therefore it's important not to exceed the luggage weight and size recommendations for this trip, which you can find in the ‘Packing’ section of the Essential Trip Information.

Summer temperatures can be extreme in Spain and Portugal (over 40°C), so it’s important to use sun protection, wear breathable layers to combat the heat and drink plenty of water. Many hotels in Europe have fans, not air conditioning. In contrast, this trip also has departures during the winter months (mid-October to mid-March). This is the perfect time to see the highlights of Spain without any of the crowds, however the weather during this time of year is unpredictable, and possibly cold and rainy. Please carefully consider the time of the year you wish to travel and your suitability to that season.

Space is at a premium in Europe and your hotel is no exception. Rooms are often small, but usually the central location makes up for that. Accommodation on this trip is twin share, which means solo travellers will be paired with a roommate of the same gender. If you do not identify with the gender listed on your passport, please notify us at the time of booking. For those travelling as a duo, hotels in Europe often don't have double beds, but rather two single beds that can be pushed together. In some cases, bathroom facilities will be shared rather than ensuite.

You don't have a lot of time in Madrid and Barcelona at the start and the end of the trip respectively, so if you're keen to explore these spectacular cities in depth, we recommend you arrive a day or two before the start of the trip and/or extend your stay at the end.

Gallery

Itinerary

Welcome to Madrid, the sassy Spanish capital is known for its elegant boulevards and expansive, manicured parks. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at either 6 or 7 pm, depending on common area availability. As there's limited time for sightseeing in Madrid, booking a few extra days isn't a bad idea. After the welcome meeting, perhaps get into the mind of a Madrileno with some tapas and Rioja with your fellow travellers.

Accommodation

Hotel (1 night)

Optional Activities

Madrid - Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza - EUR12

Madrid - Museo del Prado - EUR15

Madrid - Real Jardín Botánico - EUR6

Madrid - Museo Reina Sofia - EUR10

Madrid - Royal Palace - EUR11

Madrid - Tapas Urban Adventure - EUR82

Meals Included

There are no meals included on this day.

Special Information

It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting as we will be collecting insurance details and next of kin information at this time. If you are going to be late please let your travel agent or hotel reception know. Ask reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on where the meeting will take place. If you can't arrange a flight that will have you arrive at the hotel by early evening, you may wish to arrive a day or two early. We'll be happy to book additional accommodation for you (subject to availability).

Take a bus to Granada today (approximately 5 hours). Located at the foot of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Granada is packed with Moorish architecture, great tapas bars and natural beauty. Take a walk around the old Arab quarter of the Albaicin, a labyrinth of crooked alleys, fountains, plazas and whitewashed houses, or the 'Alcaiceria' (old silk market area) and observe the craftworks on sale that include ceramics, marquetry and leather goods. If you're feeling energetic, climb the steep streets up to the Mirador de San Nicolas for sunset views over the famous Alhambra. If you have time, perhaps check out the historic Renaissance Cathedral and Capilla Real, or watch the world go by as you indulge in some tapas at a bar. Granada is the kind of city to leave your guidebook behind and trust your intuition.

Accommodation

Hotel (1 night)

Meals Included

Today make a visit to Granada's impressive Alhambra Palace. An entrance ticket is included in the trip and grants you the visit of Nasrid Palace and the Gardens. The Alhambra was first built by the Moors as a fortress during the Muslim rule of Spain. A walk through the compound's luxurious rooms and gardens gives you an idea of the decadent lifestyle enjoyed by the Moorish kings. The Alhambra is made up of three main parts: the Alcazaba, the 11th-century Muslim wing which features spectacular views from its towers; the Palacio Nazaries, the centre of the complex; and Generalife, the summer palace of the sultans. This evening, unearth the restaurants in the tangled streets of the Albaicin and dine with the best views of the Alhambra or head out for tapas in the town centre.

Accommodation

Hotel (1 night)

Included Activities

Granada - Alhambra Visit & Guided Tour

Optional Activities

Granada - Jose Guerrero Centre - Free

Granada - Mirador de San Nicolas - Free

Granada - Science Park - EUR7

Granada - Science Park Planetarium - EUR2

Granada - Catedral de Granada - EUR5

Granada - Capilla Real - EUR5

Meals Included

Breakfast

Special Information

Due to high demand and in order to be able to control visitor numbers, local authorities have implemented a timed ticket slot system for the Alhambra Palace. This system requires each visitor’s full name, passport number, nationality and date of birth. As tickets sell out months in advance we need these details from you at least 60 days prior to the trip’s departure. Failing to provide these details may result in us not being able to secure tickets for you. Please also remember to carry your passport with you at the time of the visit, as details will be counter checked at the entrance gate.

Travel approximately 2.5 hours by bus and train to the vibrant city of Seville. If the legends are to be believed, Seville was founded by Hercules and its origins are linked with the Tartessian civilisation. After the Christian reconquest, it became thought of as the portal to the 'New World', and is today the capital of Andalucia and the largest city in southern Spain. Known for its important monuments and fascinating history, Seville is universally famous for being a joyous town. Sevillians are well known for their wit and sparkle, and the city itself is striking for its vitality and flamboyance – the city of Carmen, Don Juan and Figaro. Seville is also famous for its oranges, tapas and flamenco, all three of which are ingrained in the fabric of the city and its proud people. As the rest of the day is free for you to explore, why not go and experience it all in person. Barrio Santa Cruz, with its multicultural history, is a great place to start. This shaded warren was designed in medieval times to provide refuge from the great Andalusian heat. Or maybe spend your evening San Jacinto, the bustling main street of the Triana quarter, and discover the interesting and adventurous food on offer.

Accommodation

Hotel (1 night)

Meals Included

Breakfast

Special Information

Please note that currently there are track works on the train line between Granada and Seville. We will therefore travel by both train and bus on this stretch of our journey.

Today is a free day to discover Seville. Checking out the world's largest Gothic cathedral is a must. You can also the climb the cathedral's adjoining Moorish tower, known as La Giralda. While you might have to line up, it's well worth it for the views over the city. Visit the magnificent Alcazar, a complex of palaces used by Moorish and Christian rulers through the ages, and now gaining international fame as a shooting location for ‘Game of Thrones’. Wander through the fragrant gardens and examine the Moorish and Mudejar architecture. If you feel like an injection of culture, explore Seville's Museum of Fine Arts or the Archaeological Museum. As Seville is the tapas capital of Spain, be sure to sample some of the tasty morsels on offer in one of the city's many tapas bars. In the evening, catch a local flamenco performance with the group (included). Charged with emotion and drama, this powerful, fiery show is a real highlight

Accommodation

Hotel (1 night)

Included Activities

Seville - Evening Flamenco Performance

Optional Activities

Seville - Torre del Oro - EUR3

Seville - Santa Paula Convent - EUR3

Seville - Indias Archive - Free

Seville - Museum of Fine Arts - EUR2

Seville - Archaeological Museum - EUR3

Seville - Andalusian Contemporary Art Centre - EUR3

Seville - Guided Tour including Alcazar - EUR13

Seville - Museum of Art & Popular Customs - EUR2

Seville - Cathedral & Giralda Tower - EUR9

Seville - Casa de Pilatos - EUR8

Meals Included

Today board a bus and cross the border into Portugal. Travel through fertile plain landscapes of orange orchards, olive groves and maize fields to the Algarve, Portugal's stunning southern coast, where your destination is the seaside town of Lagos (approximately 5 hours). Set on the banks of the Rio Bensafrim, Lagos is gifted with a temperate Mediterranean climate, a bounty of beaches and a rich heritage. On arrival, you might want to take a walk around town. Wandering around Lagos’s old town enclosed within 16th century walls, on pretty cobbled streets and picturesque plazas and churches, is definitely a good thing to do. In the evening, why not head to feast on freshly caught fish at a restaurant or cafe overlooking the water and behold a golden sky at sunset, before throwing yourself into Lagos' pumping nightlife.

Accommodation

Hotel (1 night)

Meals Included

Most of today is free to enjoy Lagos and its surrounds. At some point during the day (depending on availability) you will enjoy an included boat tour around Algarve’s rocky cliffs. Explore the jagged, weathered rockface of Pinta da Piedade, full of arches, towers, grottoes and caves that have been eroded into this fabulous limestone coast. Your leader will inform you about the exact time in advance so you can plan other activities around that. For the rest of the day, perhaps pack a book and towel and head to the beach. The vast sands of Meia Praia stretch for over four kilometres, and it is peppered with beach bars, cafes and sun lounges. Also, plenty of water sports are on offer in the summer. In addition, there are numerous boat trip options, focusing on birdwatching, fishing, or even spotting the Algarve dolphins. Praia do Porto de Mos and Camilo Beach are also good options, lovely water and sands surrounded by great rock formations. Take a stroll through the quaint alleys of central Lagos, or head down to the waterfront to watch the boats come in. Just ask your leader for any tips if you’re unsure.

Accommodation

Hotel (1 night)

Included Activities

Lagos - Algarve Cliff Boat Trip

Meals Included

Today head north by public bus to Lisbon (approximately 4 hours). As one of Europe's most pleasant and affordable capital cities, Lisbon combines the best elements of Portuguese life, offering fantastic architecture, a multicultural population, delicious seafood and non-stop nightlife. On arrival to the city, head out on an orientation walk of Lisbon to find your feet. There are some great modern and ancient art museums to check out, such as the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum, the National Museum of Contemporary Art or the National Coach Museum. Your afternoon and evening is then free, so perhaps head to the grand Naval Museum for an insight into the history of Portuguese navigation. You can roam through the charming narrow streets of local neighbourhoods and see local life play out. Maybe simply sit back in one of many outdoors restaurants and cafes – watching the life go by is definitely one of the best ways to relax in Lisbon. As the sun goes down, some of Lisbon's best nightlife centres on the neighbourhood of Bairro Alto, where you can enjoy an emotional fado performance (traditional Portuguese music).

Accommodation

Hotel (1 night)

Optional Activities

Lisbon - Fado Show with Dinner - EUR50

Lisbon - Sunset Fado & Tapas Urban Adventure - EUR70

Lisbon - Experience Lisbon Walk Urban Adventure - EUR45

Meals Included

Today is a free day to further discover Lisbon, which is located on the banks of the Tagus (Tejo) River and is truly one of Europe’s great cities. Much of Lisbon’s character and charm lies in its beautiful renovated buildings, grand boulevards and impressive castles and churches. Perhaps head out this morning on a tour to visit to the medieval citadel in the city centre of Lisbon. Discover the medieval citadel of Sao Jorge Castle, which dates back to Moorish times and sits on the highest point of the Old Town. Look down on a city swarming with endless angular white houses and buildings with distinct red terracotta rooftops. From the citadel, this makes a contrasting panorama when viewed against the deep blue of the sky and ocean. With the rest of your free time today, perhaps catch a tram or hire a bike and cycle along the water to the historic neighbourhood of Belem. Make sure you try a sumptuous custard tart at the famous Casa Pasteis de Belem. Relax at a cafe in hilly Alfama, or check out the fascinating street art spread throughout the city.

Accommodation

Hotel (1 night)

Optional Activities

Lisbon - Naval Museum - EUR5

Lisbon - National Art Museum - EUR6

Lisbon - Folk Art Museum - EUR3

Lisbon - Oceanarium - EUR17

Lisbon - Puppet Museum - EUR5

Lisbon - Gulbenkian Museum - EUR10

Lisbon - Citadel - EUR9

Lisbon - Belem Tower and Monastery - EUR13

Meals Included

Continue north on a local bus to Porto, the capital of the north that sits between a river and the Atlantic Ocean (approximately 4 hours). Stretching along the banks of the River Douro, Porto is one of Portugal's most romantic cities. Known for majestic bridges, medieval riverside district with its cobbled streets, merchants’ houses and cafes, Porto is also well known for one more thing; surprise surprise – Porto is the birthplace of the fortified wine, port. Indulge in an included group tasting of some famous tawny and ruby ports at one of the many wine houses across the river. Most of the grapes are grown and harvested in the nearby Douro Valley. If sampling the best from the region piques curiosity, why not learn more about the history of wine and port making at the Museu do Vinho later on in the afternoon. Alternatively, spend the evening soaking up the atmosphere of this coastal city in numerous cafes and restaurants that Porto has to offer.

Accommodation

Hotel (1 night)

Included Activities

Porto - Port Wine Tasting

Meals Included

Today is a free day to explore Porto. The city's World Heritage-listed Ribeira district is packed with twisting alleys, staircases, and baroque churches, and is great to explore on foot. Sao Francisco church is known for its lavish interior with ornate gilded carvings. The palatial 19th-century Palácio de Bolsa, formerly a stock market, was built to impress potential European investors. For a sensational view of the whole town head to the Torre dos Clerigos (Clerigos Tower). Head down Allies Avenue to see the French-inspired buildings, then make a turn for Bolhão Market. This is the city’s most famed market, bursting with fresh produce and other goodies. Up in the cathedral area you’ll find the oldest neighbourhood in Porto and a place where you’ll see its true soul. Boat cruises along the Rio Douro operate several times a day, offering insight into the history of Porto's six famous bridges. A cruise is also a great chance to snap some great photos of the colourful tiled houses lined up along the riverbank. For dinner, make sure you try the country’s most famous sandwich – the francesinha – then head to Galerias Paris Street for nightlife.

Accommodation

Hotel (1 night)

Optional Activities

Porto - Lello Library - EUR6

Porto - Experience Porto's Bites and Sights Urban Adventure - EUR52

Porto - Clerigos Tower - EUR5

Porto - Serralves Foundation - EUR5

Porto - Bolhao Market - Free

Meals Included

Today board a bus bound for Santiago de Compostela in northwestern Spain (approximately 3 hours). The capital of Galicia became a symbol of the Spanish Christians' struggle against Islam and is famous as the culmination point for pilgrims walking the Camino de Santiago. Soak up the religious energy in the cathedral where St James, one of the 12 Apostles, is purportedly buried. The cathedral was consecrated in 1211 and is the central point within the medieval walls of the old town, standing majestically on the Plaza del Obradoiro with its towers soaring above the town. Elaborately carved stone facades open onto grand plazas, full of pilgrims and locals spending their day in this atmospheric place. Perhaps join them in one of the cafes, sitting back and listening to many of the street artists performing on the streets of the old town. Visit the cathedral and do as pilgrims do – circle the main altar admiring the greatness of the place. Tonight, maybe and explore the streets close to the cathedral for Galician specialties. Perhaps try peppers of Padrón, and empanadas (Galician pies, filled with meat or seafood).

Accommodation

Hotel (1 night)

Meals Included

Today you'll have the opportunity to join pilgrims on the last stretch of the Santiago de Compostela route. Take an early bus to Amenal village where the 18-kilometre walk begins. The trek will take you through the villages, fields and rivers of Galicia. In Lavacolla village you'll cross the river where medieval pilgrims traditionally bathed in the river to purify themselves before arriving in the holy city. From here, ascend again to the Monte do Gozo (Mount of Joy), so called for the feeling when pilgrims would catch their first sight of the towers of Compostela Cathedral. Embrace the atmosphere up here on the mount, alongside some walkers who may have trekked over 800 kilometres to be here. The entire walk takes approximately 4-6 hours to complete. It is important that you wear comfortable footwear and bring a rain coat, as weather in this region of Spain can be unpredictable, even during the summer months. Once back in Santiago the rest of the day is free for you to explore. Santiago de Compostela is a World Heritage site, an open-air museum that holds many delights within its walls – the lively squares, the market and the University buildings are must sees. For you final night in town, maybe wander down the streets of Rua do Franco and Rua da Raina to try some tapas.

Accommodation

Hotel (1 night)

Included Activities

Santiago de Compostela - Camino de Santiago Hike

Optional Activities

Santiago de Compostela - Visit to a Local Cheesemaker - EUR20

Santiago de Compostela - Bike Hire - EUR10

Santiago de Compostela - Pilgrimage Museum - EUR2

Santiago de Compostela - Cathedral - Free

Meals Included

There are no meals included on this day.

Special Information

Today's hike on the Camino de Santiago will take in the section between Almenal village and Santiago. It's about 18 kilometres, and can be completed in 4-6 hours, depending on group's fitness level. You will walk on a mix of uneven terrain and gravel roads, with some steep climbs and descents. We recommend sturdy shoes. Please speak to your leader if you are unsure whether this activity is suitable for you. For those not wanting to do in the walk, there are plenty of things to keep you entertained in town for the day. Please note that this activity is subject to weather conditions.

Today take a short flight from Santiago de Compostela to Barcelona. The city’s quirky character and fabulous Catalan cuisine mixes seamlessly with a groundbreaking art scene, Gothic architecture, superb dining and a non-stop nightlife. Enjoy a free afternoon to wander the labyrinthine streets of the old Gothic Quarter or navigate your way through the throngs of tourists along La Rambla, Barcelona's famous tree-lined boulevard. Grab a fresh juice at the colourful La Boqueria market while you're there. You can take the funicular to the top of Montjuic or Tibidabo for panoramic views of the city. Perhaps pay a visit to the Picasso Museum or the Museum of City History to brush up on your local knowledge. A visit to Gaudi's masterpiece, the modern basilica of La Sagrada Familia, is a must, even if it's just to see the outside. Gaudi was the master of the unique Catalan Modernista architecture for which Barcelona is famous, and his work is dotted all over the city. In the evening, why not head to the funky neighbourhood of El Born for some tapas crawl with the group, and toast to your adventure.

Accommodation

Hotel (1 night)

Meals Included

There are no meals included on this day.

Special Information

We recommend you book entrance tickets to the main attractions in Barcelona in advance to avoid queuing or missing out on tickets. If you would like to visit La Sagrada Familia, it’s best to pre-book your tickets well in advance. To do so, please visit tickets.sagradafamilia.org for updated information on available times. On this trip the best time to visit is this afternoon or any time tomorrow.

Today your Spain and Portugal adventure comes to an end. There are no activities planned so you are able to depart the accommodation at any time, though please keep in mind you will have to adhere to check-out times set by the hotel. As there's so much to see and do in the exciting city of Barcelona, however, we recommend extending your stay for a few nights. If you need further accommodation, our reservations team would be happy to assist (subject to availability).

Optional Activities

Barcelona - Cathedral - EUR7

Barcelona - Casa Batllo - EUR24

Barcelona - Cable car to Montjuic (one way) - EUR8

Barcelona - Contemporary Art Museum - EUR10

Barcelona - Guell Palace - EUR12

Barcelona - Museum of City History - EUR7

Barcelona - Picasso Museum - EUR14

Barcelona - Andean-Amazonian Ethnographic Museum - Free

Barcelona - Old Santa Creu Hospital - EUR10

Barcelona - Museum of Gaudi - EUR6

Barcelona - National Art Museum of Catalonia - EUR12

Barcelona - La Sagrada Familia (must be prebooked in advance) - EUR15

Barcelona - Tapas Tour in El Raval Urban Adventure - EUR70

Meals Included

Breakfast

Inclusions

Meals

9 breakfasts

Transport

Train,
Public bus,
Plane,
Metro,
Taxi

Accommodation

Hotel (12 nights),
Pension (2 nights)

Included activities

Granada - Alhambra Visit & Guided Tour

Seville - Evening Flamenco Performance

Lagos - Algarve Cliff Boat Trip

Porto - Port Wine Tasting

Santiago de Compostela - Camino de Santiago Hike

Meals

9 breakfasts

Transport

Train,
Public bus,
Plane,
Metro,
Taxi

Accommodation

Hotel (12 nights),
Pension (2 nights)

Included activities

Granada - Alhambra Visit & Guided Tour

Seville - Evening Flamenco Performance

Lagos - Algarve Cliff Boat Trip

Porto - Port Wine Tasting

Santiago de Compostela - Camino de Santiago Hike

Dates & availability

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Important notes

PASSPORT DETAILS FOR ALHAMBRA VISIT
Due to high demand and in order to be able to control visitor numbers, local authorities have implemented a timed ticket slot system for the Alhambra Palace. This system requires each visitor’s full name, passport number, nationality and date of birth. As tickets sell out months in advance we need these details from you at least 60 days prior to the trip’s departure. Failing to provide these details may result in us not being able to secure tickets for you. Please also remember to carry your passport with you at the time of the visit, as details will be counter checked at the entrance gate.

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT
A single supplement is bookable on this trip, subject to availability at the time of booking. Please note that due to the small properties we use in Europe, only a limited number of single supplements are available on each trip departure. If you would like to book a single supplement please speak to your booking agent.

Essential trip information

Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.